India’s wrestling sensation Antim Panghal made a strong statement at the Asian Wrestling Championships 2025 trials, proving that she is back in top form.
The 2023 World Championships bronze medalist displayed exceptional skill and determination in New Delhi, securing her place in the Indian team for the continental event in Amman, Jordan later this month.
Antim Panghal Makes a Resounding Comeback
After a tough outing at the Paris Olympics, where she suffered an early exit, Antim took time off to recover and recalibrate. She skipped the Federation Cup in Phagwara due to illness but returned to action at the IIS Haryana Dangal Championship in Hisar. However, it was at the Asian Championships trials where she truly reminded everyone of her caliber.
In her first match, Antim blanked Maharashtra’s Swati Shinde 6-0, showing complete control and technical superiority. She followed it up with an emphatic victory over Federation Cup silver medalist Hinaben Khal in the 53 kg quarterfinals, proving she is back to her best.
A Step Towards Redemption
The Asian Championships hold special significance for Antim Panghal. Last year, she competed in the 57 kg category and won a silver medal in Astana, Kazakhstan. This time, she has returned to her preferred 53 kg category and will be aiming to improve on last year’s result.
Antim’s clinical performance in the trials indicates that she is determined to reclaim her place at the top. The competition in Delhi featured three wrestlers in her category, and she dominated her way through, leaving no doubts about her selection.
Antim Panghal’s Achievements and Legacy
Despite her young age, Antim Panghal has already built an impressive resume:
Major International Medals
• World Wrestling Championships
• 🥉 2023 Belgrade – Bronze in Women’s Freestyle 53 kg
• Asian Wrestling Championships
• 🥈 2023 Astana – Silver in Women’s Freestyle 57 kg
• Asian Games
• 🥉 2022 Hangzhou – Bronze in Women’s Freestyle 53 kg
• U-20 World Wrestling Championships
• 🥇 2022 Sofia – Gold in Women’s Freestyle 53 kg
• 🥇 2023 Amman – Gold in Women’s Freestyle 53 kg
Records and Notable Achievements
• First Indian woman to win a gold medal at the U-20 World Wrestling Championships (2022)
• Successfully defended her U-20 World title in 2023, becoming a two-time champion
Can Antim Panghal Clinch the Asian Title This Time?
Antim’s dominance in the trials suggests that she is in peak condition heading into the Asian Championships. The 53 kg category is always competitive, featuring top wrestlers from Japan, China, and Kazakhstan. However, with her aggressive style, technical skills, and experience, she stands a strong chance of winning her first senior Asian title.
The 2025 Asian Wrestling Championships will be a crucial test for Antim as she looks to regain her momentum and re-establish herself among the continent’s best. If she continues this form, she could be one of India’s biggest medal hopes in international wrestling this year.
With her powerful performances and relentless determination, Antim Panghal is back—and she means business!
